Schofield introduces a versatile field watch, breaking new ground with a completely redesigned case after 15 years of consistent shape and dimensions. The Light, at 40mm in diameter, offers a fresh take while maintaining the complexity and detail of previous models. Inspired by the austerity, endurance, and precision of lighthouses, these new watches are built for legibility and reliability, featuring subtle military cues. Powered by an automatic, mechanical Seiko movement with a 24-hour GMT, The Light comes in two aptly named colours: The Light One and The Dark One. Both are limited to just 150 pieces each.

Priced at £2190, we’re loving The Light Watch from Schofield here at The Coolector and for any man seeking out a luxury watch that you won’t see on many wrists, this one is right up there with the best of them. The Light may be Schofield’s most affordable watch, but it certainly isn’t lacking in substance. Designing an economical watch is a challenge for Giles Ellis, yet we’ve managed to achieve it without compromising on quality. Utilising a superb yet reasonably priced Seiko movement, as opposed to the more common ETA 2824-2, helps keep costs down, though it’s just a part of the story.

Schofield also increased production numbers to further enhance affordability. However, the true essence of The Light lies in its inspiration: the steadfast lighthouses that symbolise Schofield’s home on the coast, embodying reliability and guidance. The Beam-of-Light logo makes multiple appearances for the first time, gracing the crown, dial, and case back. The term “General Purpose” defines its versatile nature. Whether you wear it while climbing to the lamp room or on everyday adventures, The Light is built to handle it all.

As a field watch, it fits broadly into the category associated with military use. At first glance, the dial and case might seem as straightforward as other field watches, but closer inspection reveals the intricate complexity and refinement of its design. While field watches can often be quite ordinary, this new design is anything but. It boasts a heavy box sapphire crystal set within a vertically brushed bezel that catches the light beautifully. The surrounding metal on the top surface forms a compound curve, steeply dropping away at the bezel and sweeping elegantly towards the lugs, adding a touch of sophistication and complexity to the watch.

The case back features an inner-printed mineral crystal with tiny apertures that reveal glimpses of the movement, depicting the lighthouse lamp, horizon, and stars that twinkle in the light. This artwork is aligned along the 12-6 axis, and the case back screws in without any visible holes. The entire case, apart from the bezel, boasts a fine matte finish. The Dark One variant is PVD-coated in gunmetal grey, and both cases have additional anti-fingerprint coatings applied for enhanced durability and aesthetics.